Here are a few major trucking events happening near you to mark in your diary.
SEPTEMBER
September 27-29
Gold Coast, Queensland
After a difficult two years for road freight operators, NatRoad is pleased to invite members to the NatRoad National Conference 2023, to be held at the RACV Royal Pines Resort, Benowna on Queensland’s Gold Coast from September 27-29. Includes the ‘NatRoad Parliament’ and the NatRoad Awards presented at the Gala Dinner.
Lights On The Hill Memorial Convoy
September 30-October 1
Gatton, Queensland
The 2023 Lights on the Hill Memorial Convoy is planned to be held on September 30 en route to Gatton Showgrounds with the Memorial service to be held on October 1 at the Lake Apex Memorial wall. Live music at the showgrounds includes The Wolfe Brothers, Josh Setterfield, Hayley Jensen, Will Day, Kerry Kennedy & Double Barrel and more.
OCTOBER
October 14
Kilcoy, QLD
The Kilcoy Konvoy is coming back with a bang. The day starts off with a truck convoy through Kilcoy, arriving at the Kilcoy Showgrounds where trucks will be judged in 18 different categories, from Best Classic to Best Mack to Best Bling. There’ll be fun for all the family, with a truckies’ challenge, trade stalls, food stalls, and a jumping castle.
After the event was sadly postponed last year due to heavy rain, truckies will be rearing to go this time around.
The organisers are also introducing a fun twist this year – come dressed in matching outfits for your chance to win a fantastic prize!
Tickets are $30 for truck entry, $5 for general entry and kids under 13 go free. Muster at 9am for a 10am departure.
Urana Vintage Machinery Rally and Truck Show
October 14-15
Urana Sportsground, NSW
The Urana Vintage Machinery Rally and Truck Show kicks off with a Vintage Tractor Trek leaving Victoria Park at 9am. Expect a host of vintage engines and tractors on display, as well as a vintage tractor pull, truck show, Show ‘n’ Shine, and hospital fete. Night entertainment will be provided by Smokey & The Bandit. Entry is $5 for adults and free for children under 16, and there’s also free camping and showers all weekend. Cabins and powered sites will be available across the road at the Urana Caravan Park.
Technology & Maintenance Conference
October 16-18
Melbourne, VIC
The Technology & Maintenance Conference (TMC) in-person event is back after four years. The event aims to bring new ideas, expert advice, and strategies to help transport operators save thousands of dollars through improved maintenance and purchasing strategies. The TMC program committee is seeking expressions of interest from people to propose sessions, workshops or to be part of a panel at TMC 2023. The program will cover topics including technology, safety, productivity, environment, costs and industry careers. Registrations to be launched soon.
October 19
Melbourne, VIC
Now in its second year, the event will feature a broad array of experts and policymakers to explore how the transport, freight and logistics industry can embrace alternative fuels while also meeting the growing freight needs of the nation.
October 25
Melbourne, VIC
Held in conjuction with Waste Expo 2023, the breakfast will deliver an exploration of the crucial intersection of enironmental sustainability, waste management and regulatory compliance, via a tremendous line-up of speakers.
October 29
Clarendon, NSW
Starting at the Sydney Dragway, the convoy will make its way to the Hawkesbury Showground in Clarendon for a day filled with fun and festivities for the whole family. The event will raise funds for the NETS Ambulance Service.
NOVEMBER
November 4
Brisbane, Queensland
Following a successful 2022 event, planning is already underway to make the 2023 Brisbane Convoy for Kids even bigger and better. Along with the main convoy, there will be a truck show, family fun and entertainment, and an evening fireworks display.
White Hill Truck Drivers Memorial Service and Convoy
November 4
Murray Bridge, SA
Honouring truck drivers who have lost their lives, the White Hill Truck Drivers Memorial now has over 100 names. This special day will begin with a convoy, with trucks meeting at White Hill. Each truck will wear a banner and head down the hill towards the monument, where they will line up and toot their air horn ahead of the service that will take place at 11am.
November 11
Mullumbimby Showground, NSW
Held in conjunction with the annual Mullumbimby Agricultural Show, the Mullumbimby Truck Show will feature a truck parade through town to the showgrounds at 11am. There will also be a host of activities on offer for all the family, including sideshow alley, rides, food vans, full bar facilities and live music, as well as horse and cattle events. Truck registrations open from 9am at the Mullumbimby Industrial Estate off Manns Rd.
Goulburn Convoy for Kids & Carnival Day
November 11
Goulburn Showgrounds, NSW
A jam-packed day of fun for the whole family at Goulburn Showground, Braidwood Road. On the day there will be a huge array of trucks on display following the convoy, free carnival rides, entertainment galore including the return of Bluey and Bingo, activities and interactive games for the kids plus much more. A variety of food and refreshment stations will be available. Entry for kids is free. The Convoy for Kids Goulburn charity provides financial assistance to local families who have a child living with a permanent disability, special need, cancer or terminal illness.
East Gippsland Heritage Truck Display
November 18-19
Maffra, VIC
Held at the Maffra Recreation Grounds on Newry Road, the East Gippsland Heritage Truck Display is open to all trucks of any age, reflecting the history of transport in Australia. There’ll also be live music, catering and kids’ entertainment, including a jumping castle and model trucks. Free camping is also available for exhibitors.
November 18
Bathurst Showground, NSW
Featuring over 200 market stalls, food stalls, live entertainment and kids’ rides. Registration $55 per category. Public entry $5, children under 12 free. Held in conjunction with the annual Bathurst Swap Meet Car & Bike Show. Gates open 9am to 4pm.
For registration and further details email info@bathursttruckshow.com.au or phone Debbie on 0407 489 634, Haylie on 0438 316 150 or see the website and/or Facebook page.
November 19
Illawarra, NSW
Touted as the largest truck and motorbike convoy in the Southern Hemisphere, the Illawarra Convoy raises funds for individuals and families affected by potentially life threatening medical conditions, together with charities that work with these people, and local hospitals. Last year’s event raised over $2 million.
Have you got an event you’d like included in the next Save the Date? Email all the details to editor@bigrigs.com.au.